Tales of the Fox, real-life avenger against polluters, may be headed to big screen

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Chicago-area resident Jim Phillips was arguably a real-life superhero. Outraged by businesses polluting his beloved Fox River, Phillips became "the Fox" and did all he could to sabotage the companies' operations and spread awareness about the pollution. He is shown here during a historical re-enactment event in the early 1970s.

Chicago-area resident Jim Phillips was arguably a real-life superhero. Outraged by businesses polluting his beloved Fox River, Phillips became "the Fox" and did all he could to sabotage the companies' operations and spread awareness about the pollution. He is shown here during a historical re-enactment event in the early 1970s.

Some of the men who accompanied Jim Phillips on a re-creation of the Voyageurs canoe journey sign a paddle Nov. 25, 2001, that was then broken in a ceremony symbolize the end of life's journey for Phillips. From left in 17th-century French costumes are Lee Broski, Chuck McEnery and Ralph Frese.

Some of the men who accompanied Jim Phillips on a re-creation of the Voyageurs canoe journey sign a paddle Nov. 25, 2001, that was then broken in a ceremony symbolize the end of life's journey for Phillips. From left in 17th-century French costumes are Lee Broski, Chuck McEnery and Ralph Frese.